Why in news?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi informed Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim that he would join the 47th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit – hosted by Kuala Lumpur on 26–28 October 2025 – through a video link. Modi chose not to travel because the summit coincides with the Deepavali festival at home. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will lead the Indian delegation on the ground. The summit is centred on the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability” and will review cooperation across trade, security and cultural ties.
Background
ASEAN is a regional organisation formed in 1967 by Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand to promote economic and political cooperation in Southeast Asia. Today it has ten members. India became a sectoral dialogue partner in 1992, a full dialogue partner in 1995 and has held annual summit‑level meetings with ASEAN leaders since 2002. The relationship under the Act East Policy has broadened from trade to include maritime security, digital connectivity and cultural exchanges. The summit is ASEAN’s highest decision‑making body and rotates among member states; leaders discuss regional economic integration, responses to crises and strategic issues like the South China Sea and Myanmar’s political situation.
Key points
- Virtual participation: Modi’s virtual presence allows him to observe Deepavali at home while honouring diplomatic commitments. Jaishankar will attend plenary sessions and bilateral meetings in Kuala Lumpur.
- Agenda: Delegates are expected to assess progress on the ASEAN‑India Trade in Goods Agreement, work on digital trade rules, and review cooperation in maritime security and disaster relief. The theme emphasises inclusive growth and sustainable development.
- Malaysia’s message: Prime Minister Anwar thanked Modi for prioritising cultural traditions and said Malaysia respects India’s diversity. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ASEAN‑India ties.
- Historical cooperation: ASEAN‑India trade exceeded US $131 billion in 2022–23. Initiatives such as the ASEAN‑India Free Trade Agreement and cross‑border connectivity projects have deepened interdependence.
Significance
- India’s participation, even virtually, signals its ongoing commitment to the Indo‑Pacific and the Act East Policy. It reassures ASEAN members that India values regional stability and economic integration.
- Engaging with ASEAN helps India diversify supply chains, gain access to Southeast Asian markets and collaborate on digital and green technologies.
- The summit’s inclusive theme highlights the need to balance economic growth with social justice and environmental sustainability – priorities that resonate with India’s own development goals.
- Continued dialogue amid the Myanmar crisis and competing geopolitical interests underscores ASEAN’s role as a bridge between major powers and a central actor in Indo‑Pacific cooperation.
Conclusion
The 47th ASEAN Summit demonstrates that modern diplomacy can adapt to cultural commitments. By joining virtually, India maintains its regional presence while celebrating Deepavali. Strengthened cooperation on trade, connectivity and security will remain central to ASEAN‑India relations in the years ahead.
Sources: The Economic Times; DD News